This weekend in New Hampshire, there's a plethora of exciting events to choose from, catering to various interests and age groups. From outdoor adventures to cultural celebrations, NH offers a diverse range of activities to make your weekend memorable. Here's a curated list of some of the most intriguing events across the state, along with my personal insights and commentary.
Lakes Region
Chili Cook-off & Block Party
The Upper Pemigewasset Historical Society in Lincoln hosts a chili cook-off and block party on Saturday, June 20, starting at noon. This event is a great opportunity to indulge in delicious chili while enjoying live music, games, and other entertainment. The chili tasting is a separate charge, but the rest of the festivities are free. I think this is a fantastic way to spend a summer afternoon, especially with the added bonus of learning about local history at the historical society.
Volunteer: Weed Watchers
On Sunday, June 21, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Squam Lakes Association is organizing a volunteer event called Weed Watchers. Participants will learn to identify aquatic invasive species and then take part in a guided kayaking workshop. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and learn about environmental conservation. I find it particularly interesting that the event is free, but registration is required, ensuring a controlled and educational experience.
Merrimack Valley
Joppa Hill Farm KidsFest
Joppa Hill Farm in Bedford is hosting a kid-friendly festival on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The festival features performances by local children's entertainers, food trucks, and craft vendors. It's a great family outing, allowing kids to explore the farm and meet animals while parents enjoy the entertainment. The admission fee of $49 for up to six people seems reasonable, considering the variety of activities on offer.
Berry Gardening Workshop
Black Forest Nursery in Boscawen is hosting a free berry gardening workshop on Saturday, June 20, at 10 a.m. This workshop is ideal for anyone interested in learning about growing berries, including pest management strategies. I think this is a valuable opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to gain practical knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals.
Fort Mountain Day Hike with Your Dog
On Saturday, June 20, at 10 a.m., a guided, moderate 2-mile hike will take place at Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown. The hike is dog-friendly, and all proceeds from the $30 per hiker fee go to Old Dogs Go To Helen. This event is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend while supporting a good cause. I find it particularly heartwarming that the hike is dog-friendly, promoting a sense of community and shared enjoyment.
Monadnock Region
Northlands Music and Arts Festival
The Northlands Music and Arts Festival, running from Friday, June 19, to Sunday, June 21, at Cheshire Fairgrounds in Swanzey, features a diverse lineup of bands, including Dirty Heads, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, and The Disco Biscuits. This festival is a music lover's paradise, offering a variety of genres and a vibrant atmosphere. The ticket prices vary, with one-day general admission passes starting at $129. I think this festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse range of musical styles.
Friday Night Classic Film: Jurassic Park
The Colonial in Keene is hosting a special screening of Jurassic Park on Friday, June 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. This event is a great way to relive a classic film or experience it for the first time. The ticket prices are $10 for members and $12 for general admission, which is a reasonable cost for a unique cinematic experience.
Cheshire Children’s Museum Kickoff to Summer & Community Yard Sale
The Cheshire Children’s Museum in Keene is opening its courtyard for face painting and other family-friendly activities on Saturday, June 20, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The museum also hosts a community yard sale, where you can reserve a spot in advance. This event is a great way to support local businesses and enjoy a fun, family-oriented outing. The free admission to the courtyard activities is a welcome addition, making it accessible to all.
North Country
Dixville Notch Music, Arts & Crafts Festival
The Dixville Notch Music, Arts & Crafts Festival, taking place on Saturday, June 20, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Mohawk Falls in Colebrook, features craft and food vendors, as well as live music on the pond. This festival is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. The best part is that it's completely free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Seacoast
Race the Cog
The Mount Washington Cog Railway is hosting a unique athletic event called Race the Cog on Saturday, June 20, at 9 a.m. This event involves runners of all abilities attempting to beat one of the trains to the 6288’ summit of Mount Washington. Even if you're not participating, the race is a fascinating spectacle to witness. The costs vary, making it an affordable option for spectators.
World Ocean Day Celebration
The Seacoast Science Center in Rye is celebrating World Ocean Day on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can participate in tide pooling, beach cleanups, and mock seal rescues, all guided by the science center's naturalists. This event is a great way to learn about marine life and contribute to environmental conservation. The best part is that it's completely free, making it an accessible and educational experience for all.
Southern Tier
Braids and Beer
On Friday, June 19, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., a unique event called Braids and Beer will take place in Londonderry. Fathers are invited to connect with each other while learning about styling their children's hair. This event is a creative way to bring fathers together and provide them with a fun, educational experience. The cost of $50, which includes refreshments, seems reasonable for the unique experience on offer.
Dino Day
To Share Brewing in Manchester is hosting a Dino Day on Sunday, June 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. This event celebrates Father's Day with dinosaur-themed snacks, crafts, and prizes, including a costume contest for the best prehistoric looks. It's a fun and imaginative way to celebrate Father's Day, and the best part is that it's completely free, making it an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.
Upper Valley
Hanover Parks and Rec Ice Cream Social
On Friday, June 19, from 4 to 5 p.m., the Hanover Parks and Rec is hosting an ice cream social at Sustainability Park. This event is a great way to kick off the summer and celebrate Hanover's 265th 'birthday' with free treats. It's a simple yet heartwarming way to bring the community together.
Qbar & Silent Disco
Qbar's monthly meetup in Claremont, on Friday, June 19, at 7 p.m., brings people together for an evening of community, dancing, and a silent disco. This event is a great way to socialize and enjoy music in a unique setting. The best part is that it's completely free, making it an accessible and fun experience for all.
In conclusion, New Hampshire offers a diverse range of weekend events, from outdoor adventures to cultural celebrations. Whether you're a music lover, a history buff, or an environmental enthusiast, there's something for everyone. I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the state and create memorable experiences this weekend. Happy exploring!
